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Nature lovers, take note! Chesapeake and the surrounding area are home to top-quality nature trails that offer year-round outdoor entertainment. Featuring elevated scenic overlooks and endless acres of forests, wetlands, and wilderness, you will experience something unique along each and every trail. Plus, many of these trails also feature picnic areas, playgrounds, volleyball nets, and more. Below we've compiled a list of some of our favorite trails! Read on to discover your next adventure. Deep Creek Lock Park Named after the Corps of Engineers' lock that separates the salt water of Deep Creek and the fresh water of Dismal Swamp Canal, this park encompasses 25-acres of history. Here you can walk along the pedestrian bridge and elevated walkway, hike through the woods, canoe, and play volleyball. Once you're done being active, you can grill some hotdogs and burgers and enjoy a nice picnic in the designated area. more Dismal Swamp Canal Trail Open from sunrise to sunset, Dismal Swamp Canal Trail is 8.5 miles long and accommodates horseback riders, bicyclists, walkers, joggers, and boat owners. This trail winds through some of the area's most historical and ecological habitats in the United States and features an outdoor recreational area complete with a playground for both serious and casual outdoor enthusiasts. Formerly known as US Route 17, here is a nature lover's paradise. Elizabeth River Park Elizabeth River Park is more of a park than a trail, but with the amazing amenities and scenery, you'll understand why it made our list. Having undergone construction, Elizabeth River Park is now home to a paved trail, covered pavilion, benches along the waterfront, a dog park, and much more. Elizabeth River Park is also home to newly redone boat ramps, making this park one of the most active for those boat owners. A visit here will definitely lead you to gorgeous sunsets over the river. Oak Grove Lake Park Trail This easy 1.8-mile trail loops around Oak Grove Lake. Giving way to breathtaking water views, Oak Grove Lake Park Trail is also home to a variety of other year-round outdoor activities, including fitness stops, benches, a well-kept picnic area, a family park, and a dog park. While this trail tends to be a bit on the busier side on weekends, it certainly provides a great nature-filled escape. Western Branch Park Adjacent to Western Branch Community Center, Western Branch Park is home to multipurpose fields, open spaces, and a family-friendly facility built for sports and recreation. The 80-acre park also features a two-mile nature walking trail, play areas, six tennis courts, picnic shelters, different athletic courts, and a dog park. Northwest River Park The 763-acre Northwest River Park features both natural beauty and recreational activities. From year-round boating and horse shoes to putt-putt golf and seven miles of hiking trails, this park is home to lots of outdoor adventures. While this list encompasses just a few of the amazing trails in Chesapeake and the surrounding area, we know that whatever trail you choose to walk, you'll have some great outdoor fun. Image Via Pixabay

It's never something you really expect to happen, but there are millions of reported car accidents in the United States every year. In almost every case, the driver didn't expect anything to happen then, either. So even if you don't think the following information about how to handle an accident will come in handy, it can pay to remember it anyway. 1. Stay Calm Take a deep breath and don't rush yourself. You may need to act quickly before and during an accident, but once things stop moving, stay calm and think things through. more 2. Get Out of the Road If you're still on the road after the accident, and if your vehicle still works, you should pull over at the next safe location. If your vehicle doesn't work, then you and any passengers should get out and walk to a safe location. You should also switch on your hazard lights if possible, and don't stay inside the vehicle unless the weather makes standing outside a bad idea and you're sure the vehicle is still in a safe condition. 3. Make Sure Everyone Is Okay As a result of the roughly 5.7 million annual accidents, over 2 million individuals suffer from mild to severe injuries and over 30,000 die. Even if the accident happened at low speed, such as someone rear-ending you at a stoplight, you should check yourself and everyone in your car for injuries. Whiplash can be a surprisingly damaging injury that doesn't seem too bad at first, so make sure you keep track of who has a sore neck or a headache. If there were any other cars involved, you should also check to see how those passengers are doing. 4. Call 911 There are a lot of accidents and car crashes in America that people don't report to the police, or for which the police don't bother writing a report. These accidents are the sort of low-speed fender-benders and parking lot collisions that don't result in any injuries and don't even cost the insurance company much money. However, for anything more serious than that, you should call emergency services. 5. Collect Information If there are multiple cars involved, get the insurance information from the other drivers, along with their driver's license numbers for good measure. If you can, you should take pictures of the cars, the people, and anything else that got hit in the accident. When it's time to file an insurance claim, all of this supporting information will come in handy. 6. Don't Admit Fault Unless you hit a stationary object, it's not always clear who's at fault for an accident, and even if you think it was all on you at the time, it may turn out later that you were wrong and someone else caused the accident. However, you'll never know that for certain if you admit fault at the scene because the police and the insurance companies often don't dig any deeper when someone admits to being responsible. https://www.flickr.com/photos/uberculture/2898143292/sizes/m/ Image via Flickr by uberculture

Since 2000, the Toyota Prius has been the benchmark for hybrid engineering in the United States. It's continued its run for the past 16 years as the highest-selling hybrid of all time, and 2017 looks bright. The car doesn't get a huge overhaul or makeover this year, but it does gain a few extra features coupled with the efficiency you've come to know and love. If you're wanting to upgrade to the latest model or looking to become more eco-friendly in your travels, look no further than the 2017 Toyota Prius. 1. The Efficient Engine For most people, the hyper-efficient engine is the No. 1 reason to buy the Prius. This year's engine is an upgraded version of the prior year, offering the best fuel economy yet. Under the hood, the Prius sports an Atkinson-cycle 1.8-liter engine paired with a permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor to power the front axle. Together, this powertrain provides 121 horsepower and up to 105 pound-feet of torque. It goes from zero to 60 in 10.5 seconds, while topping out at an impressive 115 mph. Fuel economy is better than ever in the 2017 Prius, with the base model offering 54 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 50 mpg on the highway. If you want even better mileage, opt for the Eco trim, which provides you with a whopping 58 mpg in the city. more 2. Top-Notch Safety Features If safety is a main concern, the Prius delivers on all fronts. It comes standard with Toyota's Star Safety System, which is a six-feature suite that includes amenities such as vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. For the extra cautious, the Prius has several available active safety features geared toward preventing accidents rather than softening the blow when they occur. Available safety specs are blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. All trim levels come with an integrated backup camera, providing wide-angle views for perfect parallel parking and reversing. When you bring all these features together, it comes as no surprise that the Prius received the coveted five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 3. Stellar Tech Specs The Prius is perhaps one of the best cars on the market for the self-proclaimed tech guru. Standard tech features on the 2017 Prius include Qi-compatible wireless charging, which eliminates the need for wires and cords in the front seats; a smart key, push-button ignition for easy starting; a color Heads-Up Display, which projects your RPMs and speed right on the windshield; and Toyota Entune for seamless smartphone integration. Other options that make your driving experience even better include the smart-flow climate control system, which ensures you're always comfortable regardless of the outside weather. In addition, the enhanced parking support system makes sure you never hit a car when backing into a spot. When it comes to hybrid vehicles, the 2017 Prius proves it's still the premier name in the industry. All you need to do is try one for yourself. https://www.flickr.com/photos/janitors/27202878773/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Janitors

With summer long gone and fall rapidly fading into the rear view, winter is looming in the distance. That means it's time to prep your car for the added stress of winter weather and driving. If you're not sure where to start, don't fret. Here are some simple tips to get your car prepped for the coming season. Check the Coolant In summer, fall, and spring, you can get away with putting water in your radiator to save money, but when winter comes, it presents a potentially disastrous problem. When temperatures plummet below freezing, this water can freeze, causing damage to your radiator and engine, as well as causing the components to overheat. To keep your engine from freezing, consider a coolant flush. This removes the sediment that's built up in the coolant. Also consider adding new antifreeze to keep your car running smoothly all winter long. more Inspect Your Tires Even if your vehicle has exceptional safety features, your tires are the only things that actually touch the road. That makes them the single most important aspect of your car in respect to safety. Without proper traction or inflation, your tires won't grip the road, making accidents more likely. That's why it's important to check your tires at least once a month in fall and once a week in winter. During these seasons, your tires can lose up to 1 PSI (pounds per square inch) of pressure for every 10-degree temperature drop. In addition, you should check your tire treads to make sure they're deep enough for grip in adverse weather, ice, and snow. Windshield Inspection When freezing rain, sleet, and snowfall, it's important to have your windshield clear. Before winter, inspect your windshield for cracks and chips, and get them fixed by a professional. If you have any significant cracks, you might want to replace the entire windshield, as it can cause visibility problems and might even be illegal. You should inspect your windshield wiper blades to make sure they aren't torn, and if they're six months old or older, replace them. Don't forget to check your windshield wiper fluid during this process, and if you have water in the reservoir, replace it with a solution that has a very low freezing point. Pack an Emergency Kit Hopefully, you'll never get stranded on the side of the road during winter, but it's always better to prepare for the worst. That's why you need to pack an emergency kit in the trunk of your vehicle. This kit should include items such as nonperishable food, bottled water, flares, a tire repair kit, extra cell phone batteries, blankets, shoes, and an extra pair of clothes. It's always better to err on the side of caution, so if you feel like you've packed too much, it's probably just right. Winter can wreak havoc on your car, so it's important to address any issues before frigid weather hits. It's not only smart, but it's also a great way to protect your investment. https://www.flickr.com/photos/topsteph53/4192342001/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Flikkersteph -4,000,000 views ,thank you!

Although Virginia doesn't have a professional football team of its own, it does have two major college programs and the nearby Washington Redskins. No matter your favorite team, Chesapeake, Virginia, has some awesome places to catch all the action. The next time you're looking to track your fantasy football team or watch the big game, check out a few of these great Chesapeake hot spots. 1. Wild Wing Cafe To some football enthusiasts, going to a chain sports bar is a blasphemous venture. However, they probably haven't been to the Wild Wing Cafe. This restaurant has 30 locations throughout the Southeast, and the Chesapeake location offers delicious food, drink specials, and plenty of televisions with all the games you want. As you might have guessed, the name of the game here is wings, which come in a variety of flavors ranging from mild to frighteningly hot. Regardless of what you choose, you can probably get out of here for under $25. You can find the Wild Wing Cafe at 1437 Sam's Drive. more 2. Kelly's Tavern With two Chesapeake area locations, Kelly's Tavern is another great choice to watch football, get some delectable pub food, and wash it down with an ice-cold beer. With an extensive menu, you'll have trouble choosing between burgers, wraps, salads, seafood, and pasta. There's also an outdoor patio at the Great Bridge joint, which is the perfect escape during halftime. If you don't head to their seaside location, you can find one off the Greenbrier Parkway. 3. AJ Gators Sports Bar & Grill For the true sports bar purist, AJ Gators Sports Bar & Grill is the quintessential choice. There are 10 locations throughout the area, with two in Chesapeake. Burgers and sandwiches are the main fare here, and the many crowd-pleasing appetizers include fried pickles, nachos, and sliders. On game day, it's in your best interest to arrive early to get a table or stake out a place at the bar. Once you're hunkered down, order a beer and food, and get ready to cheer on the Hokies, Cavaliers, Redskins, or Panthers to victory. 4. Hank's Pub If you're searching for a more fan-friendly spot for your watch party, head over to Hank's Pub. As soon as you sit down at the bar, you're greeted by Hank himself, who has slung up drinks behind the bar since the restaurant's opening. During commercial breaks and halftime, make sure you stay nearby to hear some of Hank's crazy tales of working in the U.S. Coast Guard. There are televisions everywhere, so there's no bad seat in the house, and the food is better than most for a sports bar. The burgers and chicken wings are the most popular entrées, and the bar stocks local, domestic, and foreign brews. Hank's Pub is located at 2138 South Military Highway. This fall and winter, don't miss out on the fun and exciting atmosphere that defines football season. You'll get some great food, thirst-quenching drinks, and maybe even meet a few of your football brethren. https://www.flickr.com/photos/8136496@N05/1425804862/sizes/o/ Image via Flickr by terren in Virginia

According to recent statistics, the FBI estimates that a car gets stolen once every 44 seconds in the United States. Hopefully, this never happens to you, but if it does, try to stay calm. If your car gets stolen, here are some easy-to-follow tips to help you keep your sanity and maybe even get your car back in one piece. Remember Where You Left It One of the worst things you can do is stress out if you can't find your car. For example, parking garages contain several levels, so there's a chance that you just forgot where you parked. After a long night out, it can be difficult to remember just where you parked. Fortunately, several smartphone apps can come to the rescue. Apps such as iFind My Car and Augmented Car Finder locate your vehicle and are available on both iOS and Android operating systems. You might also want to search the area to see if there's a no parking sign. If so, you might have been towed, which, although annoying, is far less stressful than a stolen vehicle. more Call the Police If you still can't locate your vehicle after a thorough search, it's time to call the police. In car theft cases, the sooner you dial authorities, the greater the chance you'll get your car back. You'll need all the information about your vehicle, including the VIN (vehicle identification number). If you don't have this information readily available, most insurance companies provide it on their website. Just log in to your account, and it's typically on the main page. It's also in your best interest to make a copy of the vehicle title to give to authorities. This lowers the likelihood that the thief will be able to sell your car. Use GPS to Aid in the Search Many new cars are now equipped with GPS, which is a valuable tool to help police recover your car. Many Toyotas have Safety Connect, which means you can pinpoint your vehicle's location by contacting the customer service department and, in some cases, even though your phone. Call Your Insurance Company Once you've filed a police report, it's time to call your insurance company. You'll need comprehensive insurance in most cases to get any money in return, but make sure to check with your provider to see what they cover. This is also important if the car is used in a crime. It provides police and your insurance company with a timeline, preventing you from being a suspect. Prevent Theft Before It Happens Perhaps the best way to deal with car theft is to prevent it before it happens. Always keep valuables out of sight, engage your security system, and only park in well-lit places. When in doubt, pay the extra money to park in a secured lot. With any luck, you'll never have to deal with a car theft, but if the worst happens, you'll know how to handle it without a major meltdown. https://www.flickr.com/photos/dumbonyc/2633564127/sizes/l Image via Flickr by dumbonyc

The Hampton Roads area might be one of the best places in the world to get seafood, but that's not all you'll find to eat at the many restaurants in Norfolk, Virginia and beyond. Here are just a few of the best restaurants to check out if you live in the area or even if you're just visiting. Freemason Abbey Restaurant Sitting near the Elizabeth River waterfront at the corner of Freemason and Boush, Freemason Abbey Restaurant is exactly what the name claims: it's an old church which is now a fashionable and very popular restaurant. The menu is just what you'd expect from an American coastal town: salmon, lobster tail, crab cakes, steak, and plenty of pasta meals. You can also find a very reasonable list of vegetarian meals, including a fried green tomato sandwich, but the house specialty is the She Crab Soup. more No Frill Bar and Grill No Frill has two locations, one in Virginia Beach and one on Colley Avenue in downtown Norfolk. Despite the name, No Frill has plenty of frills, with a cozy, warm interior, a blazing neon sign out front, and a cooking staff that cares equally about serving big portions and providing a nice plate presentation. Their dinner menu takes inspiration from all over and includes meatloaf, baby-back ribs, chicken burritos, pierogies, Cajun catfish, and teriyaki chicken pitas. The chef also offers new specials every day. Chartreuse Bistro Located just across City Hall Avenue from the MacArthur Center, Chartreuse Bistro is a small European-style bistro with high prices and high standards. The owners, a husband and wife team, take pride in offering food they buy directly from farms that grow their products organically and sustainably. The bistro provides three-course meals with several options for each course, but their menu changes daily, so there's no sure way of knowing what you might find on any given day. Some examples include cucumber gazpacho, oyster mushrooms, potato gnocchi, and chocolate cake. Handsome Biscuit Unlike the restaurants listed above, Handsome Biscuit is a breakfast and lunch place, so don't expect to find it open past 2 p.m. except on Friday and Saturday. The small restaurant sits at the corner of Colonial Avenue and West 26 Street, and as you might have guessed from the name, the main reason to stop by is to have a sweet potato biscuit sandwich. A few egg sandwich options are perfect for breakfast bites, or you might prefer the one with peanut butter, jam, and salted butter. Lunch options include chicken and pork sandwiches, and on weekend evenings you can enjoy one with fried fish and cabbage. There's no shortage of great places to eat in the Hampton Roads area, and in Norfolk alone you can find restaurants that offer down-home cooking, exotic meals inspired by international cooking, and uniquely Virginian flavors that you won't find anywhere else in the world. So whether you're looking for a high-class meal you wouldn't expect to see outside of Europe or possibly New York, or you want a warm biscuit for your lunch break, you'll find what you're looking for here. https://www.flickr.com/photos/joebehr/5709162508/sizes/m/ Image via Flickr by Joe Wolf

As a parent, there's nothing like getting to see your child grow up before your very eyes. This time comes with its ups and downs and its triumphs and follies, but nothing's as scary as seeing your teen get behind the wheel on his or her own for the first time. Even if you've taught your teen everything you know, there's still no substitute for experience. Use these tips to monitor your teen as he or she enjoys a new-found freedom. 1. Old-School Tips If you're worried that your adventurous teen is driving around more than you'd like, there are old-school ways to prevent any shenanigans. The easiest way is to check the odometer before your teen leaves home and check it again when he or she returns. This gives you a general idea if your teenager is heading out on excursions you don't know about. You should also check the car for any remnants such as food wrappers, as you probably don't want your teen scarfing down fast food while driving 80 mph on the interstate. You shouldn't be overbearing or nosy, but these little steps go a long way to preserving responsibility and trust. more 2. Plug-In Devices Many new cars and insurance companies now offer plug-in technology that hooks up to the vehicle's on-board computer. When enabled, these devices provide GPS location, braking information, and high speeds. When your teen returns home, you can use your smartphone, computer, or the car itself to see the information. Some of these devices also let you put a cap on high speeds. When the car reaches your limit, it will automatically apply the brakes to slow the car. Perhaps it's a bit intrusive on your teen's life, but it's all about his or her well-being. 3. On-Board Cameras In the past year, camera technology has improved immensely. It provides you with a way to record just about anything quickly and easily. Even on-board car cameras have become relatively cheap, providing you with a visual way to check your teen's driving habits. For only a few hundred dollars you'll have peace of mind. Plus, you can see if your teen is engaging in any habits you don't find acceptable. 4. Apps Smartphone apps are perhaps the easiest and cheapest way to monitor your teen's driving habits. TxtShield is one of the newer apps on the market, and it's an effective way to curb distractions. As soon as your teen's car travels above 10 mph, TxtShield disables web browsing, texting, emailing, and calling. It costs only $1.99, and it's available for both iOS and Android. Another beneficial app is Allstate's Drivewise, which tracks your driving. Because it's monitored by Allstate, you'll get cash back on your insurance policy when you meet certain specifications. Not only does it keep your teen safe, but it also puts money in your pocket. In an ideal world, all teens would heed your advice and follow the rules of the road, but that's just not the case. Fortunately, you have a variety of options to keep your teen safe behind the wheel. https://www.flickr.com/photos/statefarm/7979445278/sizes/l Image via Flickr by State Farm

The western part of Virginia is flanked by the Allegheny Mountains and Blue Ridge Mountains, making skiing and snowboarding obvious winter pastimes. If you live near Chesapeake, most of these ski fields are within a short drive. The next time you feel the urge to hit the slopes, don't miss out on these amazing ski resorts and all they have to offer. 1. Snowshoe Mountain Resort Located 300 miles from Chesapeake, Snowshoe Mountain Resort is an excellent choice for a weekend or week long trip. Several nearby towns offer a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget to extravagant. There's also an on-site hotel that provides you with top-notch amenities. When you're ready to hit the mountain, all you have to do is strap on your skis and let gravity do the rest. If you're looking for a challenge, Snowshoe Mountain has five extreme terrain parks, as well as some of the best downhill skiing in the state. Beginners will love the bunny hills, and ski lessons are always a great option to get you started. Lift passes start at $38 on weekdays. more 2. Wintergreen Resort If you're looking for something a bit closer to home, Wintergreen Resort is 200 miles away from Chesapeake by way of Interstate 64. Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Wintergreen Resort offers world-class skiing at an affordable price. The terrain park is the crown jewel here, with more than 40 obstacles, rails, and ramps on which to catch some air. Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine voted it the best terrain park. For beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders, the resort has dozens of runs that are sure to delight. After a long day on the mountain, head back to your on-site accommodation, complete with a restaurant, spa, and nightlife activities. Eight-hour lift passes start at $59. 3. Bryce Resort Situated on the edge of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, Bryce Resort is about a four-hour drive from Chesapeake, but when you arrive, you'll find the journey was well worth your time. Day passes start at $42, but for a real treat, try the nighttime skiing, which is not only thrilling but also a bargain at just $25 per session. There's an on-site restaurant and hotel, allowing you to stay on the mountain for the duration of your trip. If you're a bit apprehensive about hitting the slopes, snow tubing is another popular choice. 4. Massanutten Resort Nestled at the foothills of Shenandoah National Park, Massanutten Resort's terrific skiing is matched only by its majestic views. For more than 40 years, this resort has offered exceptional lodging and exciting nightlife, and it now has a 5,000-square-foot restaurant and café. Here, you can test your slalom and downhill skills on 11 runs of varying difficulty or try your hand at the two terrain parks. Passes are $50 on weekends and $70 on the weekend. With so many great options, Virginia is certainly one of the undiscovered gems of the American ski world. This winter, don't miss out on your chance to ski to your heart's content. https://www.flickr.com/photos/bfsminid/5283222501/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Mini D

Toyota is one of the leading car designers in the world. The company consistently improves on earlier designs by adding updated technology to enhance performance. New features make Toyota an industry leader in functionality, performance, and comfort. USB Ports Most smartphones and tablets rely on USB-powered chargers to recharge. Normally you'd have to buy a separate specialty plug in order to charge your phone using what was once the cigarette lighters in your car. However, new Toyota models have built-in USB ports where you can plug in any device that uses a USB cord to charge without buying a separate specialty charger. more Voice Recognition In order to stay focused when driving in a world full of technology, it's critical to be able to tell your car what you want it to do. If you want to text someone, you should never do so while driving. That is unless you can do it hands-free using voice recognition. You can tell your car to call your friends using your connected smartphone or to find the nearest gas station if you need to refuel. Bluetooth-Enabled Phone Book Since the invention of smartphones, address books, and palm pilots, we haven't had the need to remember phone numbers in a long time. So when it's time to dial your favorite aunt to tell her you're 10 minutes away from her house using your car's console, it would be inconvenient to have to pull out your phone first to figure out the number to dial. The Bluetooth-enabled phone books make it easy to look up the numbers without needing your phone first. Entune™ Premium Audio System The Entune™ Premium Audio System has quickly become a customer favorite. Much like your favorite tablet or smartphone, this system has downloadable apps so you can customize your experience with your car's console. If you love listening to radio stations from around the country or already subscribe to an app-based audiobook service, you can enjoy access from your car without draining your smartphone battery. Built-In Navigation The 2017 Toyota models come with built-in navigation so you always know where you're going, even if you don't own a separate GPS system or smartphone. The larger screen and built-in voice recognition make it easy to see the directions clearly without fumbling with your phone. Many customers prefer the built-in navigation system to aftermarket versions. Smart Key System Toyota's Smart Key System allows you to open car doors with the touch of a handle, instead of having to dig through your purse to find your key. As long as you're carrying your key in your pocket or purse, you'll be able to open your car doors or trunk without the key. The Smart Key System also allows you to start the car without using the physical key. Discover more on Toyota's website about the in-car technology that sets it apart from other car manufacturers. You'll learn how Toyota's new features enhance the performance and luxury of its vehicles. If you're in the market for a new car, Toyota offers some of the best features available. Image Via Pixabay

Your new Toyota needs some roads to conquer, so why not take it out on the most beautiful trips you can find? If you're spending time in the Chesapeake area of Virginia, Priority Toyota has great drives that offer majestic scenery through the tranquil countryside. Take a tip from Priority and treat yourself to a cruise down one of these amazing paths. Summit the World Along the Skyline Drive Through the Shenandoah National Park The Shenandoah National Park sits next to the Blue Ridge Mountains, the tallest range of peaks in the Appalachians. Aptly named, the Skyline Drive winds over the tips of the peaks, giving you the sensation of cruising through the edge of the clouds. If you look to one side, the Shenandoah Valley sprawls out before you, giving you an extended view of the surrounding country. On your other side, the rolling hills of the Piedmont span out toward the horizon. You could decide to speed through this 105-mile drive in a single day, but we recommend that you take your time and soak in the Chesapeake beauty. Inns, B&Bs, and lodges pepper the trip, giving you a variety of quaint dining and cozy sleeping options. Because the drive takes you over mountains and through valleys of dense forest, you are likely to see an assortment of wildlife, vibrant flowers, ancient trees, and several waterfalls. You can always take a break in a visitor center to pick up some reading material and learn more about the nature surrounding you. Truly, the Skyline Drive through the Shenandoah National Park is an amazing view to take in. more Trace Through History on the Colonial Parkway from Jamestown to Yorktown The Colonial National Historical Park is capped on either end by towns of great significance to America's past. You begin your journey in Jamestown, founded in 1609 as the first English settlement in the country. Be sure to spend some time soaking in the historical power of the environment as you peer out of your car windows at the surrounding beauty. From Jamestown, the highway guides you to Colonial Williamsburg, which is certainly worth a stop. Colonial Williamsburg boasts 500 restored buildings, so the town is almost a museum unto itself. You gain an appreciation for the struggles of America's early founders and the strides we've made in the many years that followed. Continuing along the parkway, you end your 23-mile excursion in Yorktown. History buffs immediately note Yorktown's role as the setting for the last skirmish of the Revolutionary War. A World of Water Awaits You on the Goshen Pass and Lake Moomaw Trail The drive through Goshen Pass takes you up into the mountains where you can see frightening cliff drops and powerful streams. The Goshen Pass takes you past the Virginia Horse Center and into the beautiful Jefferson National Forest. As you venture into the valley of Bath County, you can visit hot springs and spas. Keep your eyes open for the Falling Spring Falls, the Gathright Dam, and the majestic Lake Moomaw. Pause for a moment on your 65-mile journey and capture the serenity of the lake and the abounding mountains. This is definitely a view to drink in. Image Via Pixabay

If you're a dedicated Toyota enthusiast, you are already aware that Toyota will soon be releasing the 2017 Toyota Avalon. Many car critics eagerly await the new release, which promises to impress consumers and experts alike. Though the 2017 edition has yet to be released to the public, details about this vehicle are slowly being leaked. Priority Toyota wants you to stay in-the-know, so we've compiled a list of trim levels that will be available for the 2017 Avalon. Specs on the Limited 2017 Avalon Trim Level The exterior of the Avalon has undergone some cosmetic changes in the 2017 Limited model. The headlights, tail lights, and turn signals will be LED, giving it a modern edge. The front grille has redesigned fog lights and a central air intake. The Limited also offers an updated interior. The inside color is a sleek light gray accented by gray stitching, giving the car a futuristic, high-end feel. Despite the aesthetic changes to the interior, there will be no structural differences to the engine in the 2017 Limited trim. The Avalon retains its 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. The engine isn't impressively powerful, but it is enough for the purposes of this ride. The Avalon keeps the 6-speed transmission with paddle shifter. more Specs on the XLE Touring 2017 Avalon Trim Level The Touring package is heavily anticipated by the car community. The 2017 trim edition keeps all the components of luxury from its predecessors, but it also remains affordable to the average consumer. Standard features include an updated touch screen display, sensors for the car's blind spots, a built-in navigation system, and crash sensors. It is expected that the XLE Touring will offer redesigns such as a touchscreen with heightened sensitivity, swipe controls, improved lighting on the dash panel, a better braking system, and a folding backseat. The exterior of the Touring is coated in Attitude Black Metallic paint, complementing the 18-inch compound, painted, and machine-completed wheels. The headlights will be HID and the car will also sport LED Daytime Running Lights. The interior is upgraded with a blue trim around the dashboard and a back console. The blue trim also accents the calfskin-bordered seats. Specs on the Hybrid 2017 Avalon Trim Level As the name suggests, the 2017 Hybrid has a much different engine setup than the Limited. The Hybrid contains a 2.5-liter petrol-based engine attached to an electric motor that drives the ECVT gearbox. This dual design allows the Hybrid to conserve fuel and gives the consumer a highly efficient means of transportation. Toyota manufacturers understand that drivers need help in getting the most efficiency out of their Hybrids, so they've made sure to give internal support to the Hybrid. The Hybrid boasts a Multi-Information Display, allowing the driver to choose between ebb-and-flow and normal efficiency. The driver is also able to use the display to select between Sport Mode and 18 ECO markers while being presented with information on separation to discharge, EV, and car vitality. Image Via Toyota.com